This week we started looking at physical computing and the Raspberry Pi. This involves attaching various components such as sensors, motors or controllers to the GPIO pins on our Pi. This week we connected a LED and two buttons, and we used the GPIO Zero module for Python to control them. I’ve made a video, it’s a little bit long, that covers everything from Saturday’s session.

At the end of the session the group started working on a traffic light idea and we will combine this with HC-SR04 ultrasonic distance sensor next week to create a measuring device.

This weekend in the Bodgers Group our three Raspberry Pi Pioneers teams continued to work on their projects.

The Zombie Herders were working on a PIR (passive Infra-red) sensor which is the type of sensor commonly found in burglar alarms.

They used the GPIOZero library for Python and sample code which can be found here. However they didn’t have much success so we need to do more testing on our sensor and if necessary order a new one.

The zombie trolls worked on creating a 3-D model for their project using FreeCAD which they will print out when we return after the break.

I’m afraid I not allowed to discuss what it will be used for at this point :-).

Team Green Fingers worked on more scripts for their project including using their Arduino and a relay to switch a 12 volt automobile bulb on and off.

As with most projects like this we had a little trouble getting it going as we forgot to set the pin we used on the Arduino as an Output. Thanks to James and his Dad for bringing in the 12 volt powerpack.

We are off for the next two Saturdays and we’re back again on the 11th of November.